Dodgers re-sign RHP Saito to a one-year contract

By Jim Keller PA SportsTicker Baseball Editor

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Florida (Ticker)—The Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday re-signed record-setting closer Takashi Saito to a one-year, $1 million contract.

Signed by the Dodgers as a minor league free agent last offseason after 14 seasons in Japan, the 36-year-old was recalled from Class AAA Las Vegas on April 5. The righthander went 6-2 with a franchise rookie-record 24 saves and a 2.07 ERA - second-best among all National League relievers with at least 50 innings.

“Takashi came on to be one of the key players in last year’s success,” Dodgers general manager Ned Colletti said. “He stepped into a big role in the second half and handled it well. We’re glad he’s back.”

Saito took over the closer role on May 15 and posted a 1.85 ERA over his last 53 games, helping Los Angeles earn a wild card berth.

A native of Miyagi, Japan, Saito struck out 107 batters in just 78 1/3 innings and led all NL relievers with a .177 average against. Righthanded hitters managed to hit just .129 (18-for-140) off him.